Use of lightweight materials for the production of low-density concrete: a literary review

Abstract

Throughout the 20th century, the construction industry has been using large quantities of concrete. Consequently, the demand for natural aggregates has increased, making it necessary to counteract their use. In this context, this work aims at presenting a literature review of the use of lightweight materials to produce low-density concrete, whose thermal insulation is mainly made using lightweight aggregates. In this framework, 52 articles indexed between 2017 and 2021 in the Scopus database were reviewed. The results revealed that, by employing ceramsite sludge as an aggregate, a density of 1,251 kg/m3 can be obtained and, with expanded clay aggregates, compressive strengths from 17.7 to 66.1 MPa can be obtained. In conclusion, it was determined that the use of lightweight materials in concrete production can reduce its density, in addition to contributing to the reduction of environmental damage.